Spanning across diverse segments, including commercial, residential, hospitality, healthcare, and beyond, Technique Control Facility Management Pvt. Ltd (TCFM) strives to ensure seamless operations across sites. With a workforce exceeding 12,000 professionals and presence across 11 States, TCFM manages over 110 million square feet of prime real estate. Keerthana Sundar, Special Correspondent, Clean India Journal, interacts with Ashwini Walawalkar, CEO, TCFM to gain insights into her journey thus far and future plans to catapult TCFM to new heights.
With a career spanning over three decades, Ashwini’s professional journey began in 1992 in the hospitality industry. Transitioning into facility management at a time when terms like IFM and FM industry were yet to be established, the focus was on outsourcing and contract housekeeping. There has been continuous learning thereafter.
In the service industry, whether in hospitality or facility management, the core remains the same: maintaining client properties while they concentrate on their primary operations. However, bridging the gap between client expectations and actual service delivery is challenging, especially when dealing with a workforce that may lack adequate skills. Meeting client standards has always been demanding, yet the journey, though tough, has proven immensely rewarding thus far.
FM Service are people-centric. It is important to upskill, upgrade and retain our task force which is quite challenging.
Ashwini Walawalkar
A deep dive into core beliefs, strategies, policies and mantra.
In the dynamic landscape of the FM industry, continuous learning and adaptability are guiding principles. There is no fixed formula for success; rather, it evolves through experience, including both successes and setbacks.
To excel is not merely a goal but a commitment to deliver the best in every role. This mantra encapsulates Ashwini’s approach to success, resonating deeply with the core values of her current organization. These values emphasize:
- People-centric Approach: This industry thrives on human capital — it is the greatest asset. It is crucial to continually upskill and empower the workforce to deliver exceptional service, recognizing that success hinges on their expertise and dedication.
- Relationship Focus: Central to the operations is building strong client relationships. Working on client premises underlines the importance of understanding their needs and ensuring mutual trust.
- Simplicity in Operations: The business thrives on clarity and efficiency. All responsibilities on client properties are managed with integrity and professionalism, thereby safeguarding their brand reputation.
- Diversity and Inclusion: As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Ashwini advocates for diversity and inclusion initiatives. Promoting gender equality not only enriches the workforce but also aligns with today’s clients’ progressive agendas.
Plans for TCFM as CEO and the present market scenario.
Previously, the market was centered on outsourcing. The emphasis on cleaning and maintenance surged post-Covid, where hygiene emerged as a winner and the employees as hygiene warriors. This transformation has elevated these services from basic necessities to integral components of the FM industry.
Today, alongside traditional services, technology integration has become crucial. Sustainability also plays a pivotal role, with a growing focus on environmental-friendly practices and client initiatives towards sustainability. This shift aligns closely with organizational growth ambitions, underlining the importance of nurturing employees through training and upskilling initiatives.
Recognizing the need for comprehensive training in technological proficiency, TCFM has established TCFM Gurukul, which are training studios spread across five major cities. These facilities continually upgrade the workforce and are affiliated with the National Skill Council, ensuring alignment with government standards and requirements.
For TCFM, success hinges on integrating technology, promoting sustainability, and fostering diversity and inclusion. These pillars not only support the growth strategy but also enhance capability to meet ever-evolving client needs.